The New Cambridge History of Islam

This book provides an in-depth look at the political and cultural evolution of Islam from its origins to the eleventh century, featuring expert contributions. The New Cambridge History of Islam is a valuable resource for historians and enthusiasts alike.

The New Cambridge History of Islam is a comprehensive exploration of the political and cultural history of Islam, tracing its roots from the Late Antique period through to the eleventh century. This volume features contributions from prominent scholars who provide a nuanced examination of the various influences that shaped the Islamic world during its formative years. The book is structured into four distinct parts, each addressing key aspects of Islamic history and development.

The first part offers an insightful overview of the physical and political geography of the Late Antique Middle East, setting the stage for understanding the complexities of the region. Following this, the second part delves into the rise of Islam, highlighting the establishment of the Islamic political order under the Umayyad and Abbasid caliphs during the seventh to ninth centuries. This section also addresses the eventual fragmentation of the empire in the tenth and eleventh centuries, providing context for the historical developments that followed.

In the third part, the focus shifts to 'Regionalism,' examining the interconnected histories of the empire's provinces. The final section of the New Cambridge History of Islam tackles the sources and controversies surrounding early Islamic history, incorporating discussions on numismatics, archaeology, and material culture. This work not only serves as a historical account but also as a critical resource for understanding the diverse narratives that contribute to the Islamic tradition.